Crusty Italian Bread is a classic recipe that is loved for its crispy exterior and soft, chewy interior. This homemade bread is not only delicious but also easy to make, making it perfect for any occasion from family dinners to holiday gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- Great flavors that rival any bakery-bought loaf.
- Quick prep time with minimal ingredients.
- Perfect for meal prep and enjoying fresh bread anytime.
Ingredient Notes:
- All-purpose flour: Provides the base for the bread and gives it the right texture.
- Salt: Enhances the flavor of the bread.
- Sugar: Helps activate the yeast and adds a hint of sweetness.
- Active dry yeast: A key ingredient for the bread to rise.
- Warm water: Binds the ingredients together.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and moisture to the bread.
- Cornmeal for dusting: Prevents the bread from sticking to the pan.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
- Gradually add warm water and olive oil, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth and elastic.
- Let the dough rise in a warm place until doubled in size.
- Shape the dough into a loaf and let it rise again.
- Bake the bread in a preheated oven until golden brown.
- Cool before slicing and serving.
Helpful Tips:
- Use a kitchen scale for accurate measurements.
- Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing for the best texture.
- Experiment with different herbs or seasonings for added flavor.
Expert Tips for the Best Results:
- Use a baking stone for a crispier crust.
- Misting the oven with water during baking creates steam for a better rise.
- Brushing the loaf with olive oil before baking adds shine and flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this Crusty Italian Bread with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping, alongside a charcuterie board, or as a side to soups and salads.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
To store, wrap the bread in a paper bag or kitchen towel and keep at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the bread in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes to crisp up the crust.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
- Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast, but adjust the rising time accordingly.
- How can I make this bread gluten-free?
- Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour.
- Can I freeze the bread?
- Yes, you can freeze the bread for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- My bread didn’t rise, what went wrong?
- Check the expiration date of your yeast and ensure your water is the right temperature for yeast activation.
Conclusion:
Homemade Crusty Italian Bread is a simple yet impressive recipe that will elevate any meal. Give it a try and enjoy the satisfaction of baking your own delicious bread! Share your experience with us in the comments below.
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Crusty Italian Bread
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours (including rising time)
- Yield: 1 loaf (approx. 6-8 servings)
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This recipe for Crusty Italian Bread results in a delicious loaf with a crispy crust and soft interior. Perfect for serving alongside soups or pasta dishes.
Ingredients
- – 4 cups all-purpose flour
- – 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- – 1 teaspoon sugar
- – 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- – 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- – 2 tablespoons olive oil
- – Cornmeal for dusting
Instructions
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
2. Add the warm water and olive oil, and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Punch down the dough, shape it into a loaf, and place it on a baking sheet dusted with cornmeal.
6. Let the dough rise again for 30 minutes, then bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown.
Notes
- – For a more flavorful bread, add herbs such as rosemary or thyme to the dough.
- – To achieve a crispier crust, place a pan of water in the oven while baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 2.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg